Register your Vehicle

Your vehicle registration sticker displays your license plate number, county of registration and partial vehicle identification number. This customization helps protect you against theft and fraud. Registration expires on the last day of the month shown on your sticker. For example, if your sticker shows a date of 12/15, your registration is valid through the last day of December 2015.

Stickers for motorcycles are smaller and are displayed in the top right corner of the license plate.

Since March 1, 2015, your current registration sticker also serves as proof of vehicle inspection.

Heavy Vehicles

Trailers

Trailer and travel trailer fees are $45 to register a trailer up to 6,000 pounds.

Mopeds and Motorcycles

The standard fee for mopeds and motorcycles is a base registration fee of $30.

Registration Fees

Your total fees will include the base registration fee, plus a $1 Automation fee (used for improvements to the registration and title system) and $1 for the Department of Public Safety to support the TexasSure insurance verification program and other Department of Public Safety initiatives. You will see these fees itemized on your registration receipt. The state's portion of the inspection fee may be due at the time of registration and will also be line-itemed on your registration renewal notice.

Local county fees will be included in the total amount owed, if applicable. These fees are collected with registration fees through your local County Tax Assessor-Collector's office and range up to $20 depending on the county.

Other Vehicle Types

Pocket bikes and mini scooters (gasoline or battery-powered scooter)

Most of these vehicles do not pass a vehicle safety inspection and cannot be registered or driven on public roads. A secure Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin issued by a manufacturer registered with NHTSA is required to title any motorized vehicle.

Mopeds

To be registered, your moped must be on the approved list of mopeds maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety. In order to title, a secure Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin is required.

Motor Homes

The registration fee is based on weight for cars and trucks, including motor homes. For more information, contact your local county tax assessor-collector office. Proof of liability insurance and inspection is required to register your vehicle.

ATVs and off-highway use vehicles

All-terrain vehicles (three or more wheels, equipped with one or more seats, and not designed by the manufacturer for farm or lawn use) are required to be titled, but may not be registered.

Off-highway motorcycles (two or three wheels) are required to be titled, but not registered.

Boats

FAQs

I’m a Texan currently living out of state. How do I register my vehicle in Texas?

You must register your vehicle in the state or jurisdiction where you currently live, unless you are a full-time student or active military. If you are a student or active military, contact your local county tax office in the Texas county where you last resided for more information.

I moved to a different address in Texas. How can I ensure that I will receive my registration renewal notice?

It is important to update your address on your motor vehicle record. Updating your address will help ensure you receive your registration renewal notice. Failure to renew your registration is against the law and may result in a fine.

I sold my vehicle, why did I receive a registration renewal notice in the mail?

Renewal notices are printed in advance, and at the time of printing our record still indicated you as the recorded owner. If you think the buyer of your vehicle did not transfer the vehicle title you should file a vehicle transfer notification. This lets us know that you no longer own the vehicle. You should file the transfer notice within 30 days of selling or trading in your vehicle in order to receive the state protection that no longer makes you responsible for that vehicle.

Note: Filing the transfer notification does not transfer vehicle ownership; it simply removes liability for what the new owner may do with your old vehicle. Contact our customer service at (888) 368-4689 or (512) 465-3000 with the VIN of the vehicle you sold for more information.

I lost my registration sticker. How do I obtain a replacement?

You may obtain a replacement sticker from your local county tax assessor-collector’s office for a $6 replacement fee plus the $1 automation fee (to upgrade the registration and title computer system). You may be required to complete and submit Form VTR-60 to your local county tax office.